San Nicola basilica in Bari, Italy, where St. Nicholas' remains are enshrined. In 1807 Italian sailors or merchants are believed to have stolen his remains from Myra. They brought them to Bari, Italy.

San Nicola basilica in Bari, Italy, where St. Nicholas' remains are enshrined. In 1807 Italian sailors or merchants are believed to have stolen his remains from Myra. They brought them to Bari, Italy. (Susan Spano / Los Angeles Times.)

You may think you know Santa, but there's a lot more to the legend than a bag full of presents. Check out a selective history of St. Nick and how he came to be known as the jolly round man in the iconic red suit here. --Jenn Harris